Commonwealth leaders to defy UK on slavery reparations

Commonwealth leaders are preparing to challenge the United Kingdom regarding reparations for the transatlantic slave trade. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has expressed a desire to focus on pressing issues like climate change during the upcoming summit in Samoa, rather than delving into historical matters. However, diplomatic sources indicate that discussions about reparatory justice are likely to take place, despite the UK government’s insistence that the topic is not on the agenda. The Commonwealth, which consists of 56 member countries, is looking to engage in meaningful conversations about the impacts of slavery and the potential for reparations, which could amount to billions of pounds owed by the UK. Frederick Mitchell, the foreign minister of the Bahamas, stated on BBC Radio 4 that once the subject is introduced, it will take time for people to come around, but they will eventually do so. Reparatory justice can manifest in various forms, including financial compensation, debt relief, official apologies, educational initiatives, and support for public health and economic development. The draft summit communique, which has been shared with the BBC, acknowledges the calls for discussions on reparatory justice concerning the transatlantic slave trade and emphasizes the need for a respectful and truthful dialogue to build a common future based on equity. The heads of government are expected to play an active role in facilitating these conversations and prioritizing further research on the historical context of slavery. British officials have attempted to prevent a separate declaration on reparations, but it appears that the final communique will include substantial language addressing the Commonwealth’s position on the matter. The draft also highlights that many member states share similar historical experiences related to the slave trade and the dispossession of indigenous peoples. Additionally, it references the practice of 'blackbirding,' where Pacific islanders were deceived or kidnapped into forced labor. Diplomats anticipate that reparatory justice will be a central topic at the next Commonwealth summit, which is set to take place in two years in the Caribbean, possibly in Antigua and Barbuda. In the lead-up to this summit, there have been increasing calls from Commonwealth leaders for the UK to apologize and provide reparations for its historical involvement in the slave trade. A report from the University of West Indies, supported by International Court of Justice judge Patrick Robinson, estimated that the UK owes over £18 trillion in reparations to 14 Caribbean nations. Ahead of the Commonwealth meeting, King Charles III engaged with local communities in Samoa, participating in reforestation efforts and being honored as an honorary chieftain. Queen Camilla also attended a women's forum event hosted by Commonwealth Secretary-General Baroness Scotland. During a recent visit, Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis conveyed to UK officials that the fight for reparations is ongoing. Frederick Mitchell reiterated the importance of an apology, stating that it could be expressed in a simple sentence. He emphasized that the conversation about reparations is essential, even if there is reluctance from the UK to engage. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy acknowledged the calls for reparations but supported the Prime Minister's focus on future opportunities. A UK government spokesperson reiterated that reparations are not on the agenda for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting, emphasizing a focus on shared opportunities for economic growth. This position has frustrated some Caribbean ministers, who feel that the UK is not being transparent about the discussions that will take place. Sir Keir Starmer arrived in Samoa and expressed his intention to prioritize current challenges over historical discussions. He stated that the focus should be on collaborating with Commonwealth leaders to address pressing issues, such as climate change, rather than engaging in lengthy discussions about reparations. King Charles III, during a previous visit to Kenya, expressed sorrow for the colonial era's wrongdoings but did not issue a formal apology, which would require ministerial agreement. While some non-Caribbean countries support the UK’s stance, Caribbean nations remain steadfast in their pursuit of reparations. All three candidates vying for the position of the next Commonwealth Secretary-General have expressed support for reparatory justice. The UK has a long history in the slave trade, and many believe it is time to confront this past. Some argue against reparations, questioning who should receive them and whether it is fair to pay for historical injustices. Others, including Labour MP Clive Lewis, advocate for starting a conversation with Commonwealth leaders, emphasizing the need for the UK to do better by its partners. Dawn Butler, another Labour MP, argued that reparations are the right thing to do, highlighting that slave owners were compensated significantly in the past.